Written in friendly language with attention to detail, Sex Herbs shows how you can use natural substances to improve your sex life. Unlike other books I've seen on the same basic subject, this one isn't presented in encyclopedia format with an alphabetical listing of all substances; rather, it's is divided into sections based on which area(s) you'd like some assistance with:

• Souping up your libido so that your overall interest in and desire for sex is increased. Some of the best herbs for this purpose include anise, wild oats, and fennel. "Today fennel is used to increase the libido of both men and women. Fennel has been shown to increase the libido in animal studies using both male and female rats. Like anise, fennel contains an estrogen-like substance (estragole) and may thereby increase sexual drive in women. It was considered for use in the 1930s as a source of synthetic estrogen.

"In men, fennel may interfere with testosterone, relieving bladder and prostate problems, thereby making sex more enjoyable. Fennel also moderates orgasm, allowing men to enjoy sex longer."

• Increasing the amount of pleasure you experience during sex. Most of the herbs in this section increase blood/oxygen flow to the genital areas (making them more sensitive and responsive), and fenugreek has the added benefit of increasing vaginal wetness.

• Overcoming the male problems associated with impotence, male menopause, and prostate trouble. Celery increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure, which can help overcome erectile dysfunction caused by impaired blood flow. Damiana helps reverse swelling of the prostate. Ginger not only is said to aid in erections, but it has been proven to increase sperm count and motility.

• Overcoming the female problems associated with menopause and PMS. Alfalfa is an all-around help in these two areas, and blue cohosh relieves menstrual cramps, including back pain. (This chapter is the longest and covers the most herbs, making this book especially valuable for women.)

• Dealing with health problems that affect sexual desire, enjoyment, and performance. Specifically, this short chapter tells you which herbs are best for fighting arthritis, bladder infections, cardiovascular problems, depression, diabetes, and muscle aches and spasms.

•Improving your health in general. Taking herbs that help you increase your energy, relieve stress, lose weight, and overcome addictions (including tobacco) will improve your life in general, including your sex life.

The authors cover approximately 80 herbs, with some appearing in more than one section since they help in many ways. For each herb, you'll learn where it grows, what it looks like, its principle medicinal effects, parts used, chemical content, availability, dosing instructions, precautions, and added benefits. Further information includes general tips on using herbs, herb combinations (including reviews of specific products that offer an herbal mixture), and sources for these substances.

Friendly and detailed, Sex Herbs will show you that there are numerous time-tested natural options for improving all aspects of your sex life.

The views expressed above represent the writer and not necessarily those of The Disinformation Company Ltd.